Royal Highland Festival at Laya is one of Bhutan’s most unique and remote celebrations, held annually in Laya, Gasa District at 4,000 metres above sea level. This extraordinary festival raises awareness about the decline of traditional yak farming while promoting sustainable economic opportunities for Bhutan’s highland communities.
The Royal Highland Festival at Laya takes place every October when temperatures range from 1°C to 12°C with possible light rain and snow. Visitors trek from Gasa through dramatic mountain terrain — making this one of Bhutan’s most adventurous and authentic cultural experiences. Bring warm, waterproof clothing and sturdy footwear.
The Royal Highland Festival at Laya brings together Bhutan’s remote highland communities in a spectacular display of culture and tradition at 4,000 metres above sea level.
- Yak Racing: Thrilling competitions celebrating the bond between the Layap people and their yaks.
- Layap Culture: Unique costumes, customs and traditions of one of Bhutan’s most distinct highland tribes.
- Stunning Setting: Snow-capped peaks, alpine meadows and crisp mountain air as your backdrop.
- Conservation Focus: Promoting sustainable yak farming and preservation of Bhutan’s highland way of life.
Join the Royal Highland Festival at Laya with Dheyma Travels — 7 nights, 8 days of pure Himalayan adventure.
Overnight: Stay in Thimphu.
Overnight: Stay in Punakha.
Overnight: stay in Laya
The festival serves as a platform to showcase the natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant traditions of Gasa District. It embodies Gasa’s vision of “Good to Great Gasa” and invites guests to experience the authenticity and simplicity of highland life.
During the event, visitors will witness the traditional Buelwa offering, accompanied by Auley—a historical recitation of epic songs and poems that originated during the time of Zhabdrung Rinpoche. This sacred tradition, performed by the people of Laya, is a gesture of respect and loyalty to Bhutan’s successive monarchs and their visionary leadership.
The festival features a variety of cultural performances by the Layaps, including competitions in traditional songs and dances. There will also be contests involving highland animals such as yaks, horses, and mastiffs.
Additionally, a series of stalls will be set up, showcasing everything from locally produced yak goods to highland farming technologies, medicinal herbs and plants, and more—offering a unique window into highlander innovation and lifestyle.Lunch at swiss guest house
Overnight: stay in Laya.
The festival serves as a platform to showcase the natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant traditions of Gasa District. It embodies Gasa’s vision of “Good to Great Gasa” and invites guests to experience the authenticity and simplicity of highland life.
During the event, visitors will witness the traditional Buelwa offering, accompanied by Auley—a historical recitation of epic songs and poems that originated during the time of Zhabdrung Rinpoche. This sacred tradition, performed by the people of Laya, is a gesture of respect and loyalty to Bhutan’s successive monarchs and their visionary leadership.
The festival features a variety of cultural performances by the Layaps, including competitions in traditional songs and dances. There will also be contests involving highland animals such as yaks, horses, and mastiffs.
Additionally, a series of stalls will be set up, showcasing everything from locally produced yak goods to highland farming technologies, medicinal herbs and plants, and more—offering a unique window into highlander innovation and lifestyle.Lunch at swiss guest house
Overnight: stay in Laya.
Overnight: stay in Paro
Overnight: stay in Paro.
